Barrier assembly

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a barrier assembly comprising a cartridge comprising a longitudinally mounted rotatable central shaft configured for connection to a barrier and a longitudinal opening through which the interior of the cartridge is accessible. In an embodiment of the present invention, the barrier assembly further comprises a means for mounting a post to the exterior of the cartridge. In another embodiment of the present invention, the barrier assembly further comprises a base connectable to the cartridge, the base comprising at least one wheel configured to permit movement of the base on a surface.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to barrier assemblies.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Barrier fencing allows for cordoning off or restricting access to a particular area. Barrier fencing is commonly used in construction to ensure civilian non-worker access is restricted. Generally, barrier fencing is delivered to a location in a roll. The roll of barrier fencing is delivered to a location, for example, in or on a vehicle. The roll is removed from the vehicle and the barrier fencing is then unrolled and cut to the desired length. The cut length or lengths of barrier fencing are then used in a desired configuration to cordon off or restrict access to a restricted area. Typical barrier fencing has a number of apertures that are intertwined to metal posts inserted in the ground during installation. The posts define the corner points of the restricted area while the barrier fencing defines the perimeter of the restricted area.

Once work is completed in the restricted area, the barrier fencing is removed from the posts and the posts are removed from the ground. While the lengths of barrier fencing may be reused, it is difficult and time consuming to roll the barrier lengths into a suitably sized transportable roll of barrier fencing. The result is often an unwieldy bundled section of barrier fencing that is difficult to handle, transport and store. Often, the used barrier fencing is simply discarded. The resulting waste costs users who have to then purchase additional barrier fencing for subsequent work and negatively effects the environment as barrier fencing is often manufactured with non-biodegradable materials.

Barrier storage cartridges are considered for the storage and protection of barrier fencing. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0164485 to Olson et al, which is incorporated by herein by reference, describes a retractable fence assembly having an upright container that houses a coil of fencing material, preferably in the form of a foraminous web of synthetic resinous material. The web is wound up on a core within the container that is in turn rotatable upon a normally stationary spindle, there being a full-length helical return spring that circumscribes the spindle and operably interconnects the core and the spindle. Thus, as the fencing is pulled out of the container through a dispensing slot in the sidewall of the container, the return spring becomes progressively loaded with a return biasing force that maintains tension on the web and facilitates wind up and restorage of the web when usage is complete. A handle at the outer free end of the web facilitates withdrawal and return of the web and is also provided with a releasable locking clip to permit the web to be doubled back onto itself into the shape of a loop to form an enclosure. The assembly may be used in a wide variety of situations, including attachment to a work vehicle for use as temporary barricades or enclosures around work sites.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0131551 to Hopp et al., which is incorporated herein by reference, describes a retractable barrier that includes an elongate housing having a first end, a second end, and a slotted opening extending between the first end and the second end. A substrate support is rotatably mounted within the housing. A barrier substrate is provided of a height substantially equal to a length of the slotted opening. The barrier substrate has an attachment end and a free end. The barrier substrate is rolled onto the substrate support with the attachment end being attached to the substrate support and the free end extending through the slotted opening of the housing to permit a selected quantity of the barrier substrate to be extended from the housing. The barrier substrate is configurable into non-linear configurations by selectively attaching poles where a change of direction occurs. A crank is provided for rotating the substrate support, thereby retracting the barrier substrate back into the housing.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,217,061 to Stratton, which is incorporated herein by reference, describes a barrier system comprising first and second upright support legs and a laterally extending vision barrier. The support legs may include a pair of telescoping leg support portions. The laterally extending vision barrier comprises a vision barrier screen having slits spaced therein and has at least one fastener for facilitating attachment to one of the support legs. In one form, the first support leg may comprise an outer housing and an internal reel. The vision barrier is deployed on the reel.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0054404; Canadian Patent Application No. 2,784,156; and PCT Application Publication No. WO 2014/015411 all to Mitchell, which are incorporated herein by reference, describe a cylindrical cartridge purportedly used for the storage and protection of all types of barrier fencing. The cartridge has an interior hollow pipe shaft with rollers mounted to the shaft to create a spool. The spool shaft extends through the top of the cartridge and is fitted with a manually operated crank handle. A vertical slotted opening in the side of the cartridge of varying widths, dependent on the barrier material being used, allows for the extraction and retraction of the barrier fencing. The bottom of the cartridge has an opening in the centre equal to that of the interior dimension of the hollow shaft. The bottom opening allows for the mounting of the cartridge to a ground spike or stabilizing plate.

It is an object of an aspect of the present invention to provide a novel and inventive barrier assembly. Further and other objects of aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from reading the following summary of the invention and the detailed description of the embodiments described and illustrated herein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a barrier assembly comprising: a cartridge comprising a longitudinally mounted rotatable central shaft configured for connection to a barrier and a longitudinal opening through which the interior of the cartridge is accessible.

In an embodiment, the assembly further comprises a base connectable to the cartridge, the base comprising at least one wheel configured to permit movement of the base on a surface.

In another embodiment, the shaft is configured for releasable connection to a barrier.

In another embodiment, the base is configured for releasable connection to the cartridge.

In another embodiment, the cartridge further comprises means for releasably mounting a post to the exterior of the cartridge.

In another embodiment, the means for releasably mounting a post to the exterior of the cartridge is at least one connector connected to an exterior of the cartridge and connectable to a post.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a post mountable on the cartridge via the at least one connector.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a post base configured to connect to a post to maintain the post in an approximately vertical configuration.

In another embodiment, the post base is storable on the base.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a barrier releasably connected to the shaft, at least a portion of the barrier wrapped around the shaft in the interior of the cartridge. In another embodiment, the barrier further comprises a connection strip. In another embodiment, the barrier further comprises at least one magnet connected to the connection strip.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a mechanism for rotating the shaft within the interior of the cartridge. In another embodiment, the mechanism is a crank connected to the shaft.

In another embodiment, the cartridge further comprises at least one handle. In another embodiment, the cartridge further comprises at least one clamp connectable to the handle, the clamp connectable to a device.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a barrier assembly comprising: a housing comprising a longitudinally mounted rotatable central shaft, the shaft configured for connection to a barrier; a base connected to the housing, the base comprising at least one wheel configured to permit movement of the assembly on a surface.

In an embodiment, the shaft is configured for releasable connection to the barrier.

In another embodiment, the housing further comprises: at least one support connected to the base; and a plate connected to the at least one support and the shaft.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly comprises four supports.

In another embodiment, the plate further comprises at least one post aperture and the base further comprises at least one post mount aligned with the at least one post aperture. In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a post mountable on the assembly via insertion into a post aperture and fitting over a post mount.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a post base connectable to a post to maintain the post in an approximately vertical configuration.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises at least one clamp connected to at least one support. In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a post base connectable to a post to maintain the post in an approximately vertical configuration, the post base connectable to the clamp.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a barrier connected to the shaft, at least a portion of the barrier wrapped around the shaft in the interior of the cartridge. In another embodiment, the barrier further comprises a connection strip. In another embodiment, the barrier further comprises at least one magnet connected to the connection strip.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a mechanism for rotating the shaft within the interior of the cartridge.

In another embodiment, the barrier assembly further comprises a clip assembly comprising a magnet configured to magnetically connect to a ferromagnetic surface and a clip connected to the magnet, wherein a barrier is mountable to the clip.

Further advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from reading the following detailed description of the embodiments described and illustrated herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the following drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a barrier assembly in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1 without a barrier installed;

FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1 with posts and post bases;

FIG. 7 is another isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a partial isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1 with a U clamp;

FIG. 9 is a partial isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1 with magnets;

FIG. 10 is a partial isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1 with a spike base;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of the spike base of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 1 with a three legged base;

FIG. 13 is a isometric view of the three legged base of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14a is an isometric view of the three legged base of FIG. 12 in a partially folded configuration;

FIG. 14b is an isometric view of the three legged base of FIG. 12 in a folded configuration;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a barrier assembly in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 15 without a barrier;

FIG. 17 is front elevation view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a rear elevation view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 15 with posts and post bases;

FIG. 22 is a rear isometric view of the barrier assembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of a barrier assembly in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

FIG. 24 is an isometric view of a clip assembly in accordance with an aspect of the invention; and

FIG. 25 is another isometric view of a barrier mounted on the clip assembly of FIG. 24.

Similar references are used in different figures to denote similar components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Turning now to FIGS. 1 to 6, a barrier assembly in accordance with an aspect of the present invention is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 40. The barrier assembly 40 comprises a cartridge 42 releasably connectable to a base 44. The cartridge 42 has a generally cylindrical shape and stores a barrier as will be described.

The cartridge 42 comprises a body 46, connection tab 48, locator tabs 50, a quick release knob 52, a slotted opening 54, a shaft 56, barrier mounts 58, reflective material 60, operator instructions 62, a first handle 64, a second handle 66, post clasps 68, a crank 74, a crank knob 76, a crank nut 78 and a crank light 80.

The connection tab 48 and the locator tabs 50 project from an end of the body 46 in directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body 46. The connection tab 48 has an aperture into which a threaded screw (not shown) fits. The threaded screw is received by an aperture in the base 44 as will be described. The quick release knob 52 is secured to the threaded screw such that rotation of the knob 52 rotates the threaded screw and secures the cartridge 42 to the base 44 or allows for removal of the cartridge 42 from the base 44 as will be described. The locator tabs 50 interact with the base 44 as will be described. In this embodiment, the body 46 is embossed with a brand name. One of skill in the art will appreciate that other text and/or logos may be embossed on the body 46 or that no text or logo may be embossed on the body 46.

The body 46 of the cartridge 42 has a slotted opening 54 that is sized to allow for removal of the barrier 70 from the cartridge 42 as will be described. The shaft 56 is rotatably mounted at the approximate central longitudinal axis of the body 46 at either longitudinal end thereof. The shaft 56 is connected at one end thereof to the crank 74 via a crank screw (not shown) such that rotation of the crank 74 rotates the shaft 56. The crank light 80 is mounted on top of the crank nut 78. In this embodiment, the crank light 80 is a push activated light emitting diode (LED). While a crank 74 has been described, one of skill in the art will appreciate that any suitable mechanism for rotating the shaft within the interior of the cartridge 42 may be used, such as for example, via a motorized assembly.

The barrier 70 is releasably connected to the shaft 56 via the barrier mounts 58 as will be described. Each barrier mount 58 is configured such that a first portion of the barrier mount 58 is in contact with the shaft 56, a second portion of the barrier mount 58 is spaced away from the shaft 56 and connected to the first portion and a third portion of the barrier mount 58 is connected to the second portion and the shaft 56. The first portion of the barrier mount 58 is flexible. In this embodiment, the barrier 70 has a fence configuration such that the barrier mounts 58 are fixedly connected to apertures in the barrier 70 to connect the barrier 70 to the shaft 56. In this embodiment, there are three barrier mounts 58 connected to the shaft 56, but one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer barrier mounts 58 are possible. In this embodiment, affixed to the barrier 70 at the end opposite the end for connection to the shaft 56 is a connection strip 72. The connection strip 72 is configured to permit connection of the leading edge of the barrier 70 to a surface, for example, a vertical surface, such as an end member, a wall, a post or the like. In an embodiment of the present invention, the connection strip 72 is configured to permit connection of the leading edge of the barrier 70 to its own cartridge 42 or another cartridge 42.

In this embodiment, the reflective material 60 is affixed to portions of the body 46 to illuminate the assembly 40 by lights during night time use. In this embodiment, the operator instructions 62 are affixed to a portion of the body 46 such that an operator can quickly and easily view the instructions 62 that explain use of the assembly 20. The post clasps 68 are mounted to the body 46 and are configured to receive posts as will be described. The first and second handles 64 and 66 are connected to the body 46 at the portion of the body 46 approximately opposite the slotted opening 54. One of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer handles are possible.

The base 44 comprises a main plate 82; side plates 84; a front plate 86; a rear plate 88; drain apertures 90; locator braces 92; an axle 84; and base wheels 96. The side, front and rear plates 84, 86 and 88, respectively, extend from the main plate 82. As shown in FIG. 1, the side plates 84 extend from the front plate 86 past the rear plate 88. The front and rear plates 86 and 88, respectively, have a generally rectangular shape; however, a central portion of each of the front and rear plates 86 and 88 has a lower height than the portions adjacent the central portion. The lower height of the central portions of the front plate 84 accommodate insertion and removal of barrier 70 as will be described, while the lower height of the rear plate 86 accommodates connection and disconnection of posts as will be described. Furthermore, the lower heights of the central portions of the front and rear plates 84 and 86 described the overall weight of the base 44 thereby decreasing the overall weight of the assembly 40. The rear plate 88 has drain apertures 90 as shown in FIG. 3. While two drain apertures 90 are depicted, one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or less may be present. As shown in FIG. 5, two locator braces 92 are connected to the main plate 82. The locator braces 92 of the base 44 interact with the locator tabs 50 of the cartridge 42. The axle 94 passes through apertures in the side plates 84 and is connected to base wheels 96 on either end thereof. The base wheels 96 allow for the base 44 and the assembly 40, when the cartridge 42 is connected to the base 44, to be mobile as will be described.

In use, the cartridge 42 is connected to the base 44 via the connector tab 48. The cartridge 42 is situated on the main plate 82 of the base 44 such that each locator tab 50 of the cartridge 42 fits into a locator brace 92 of the base 44. In this configuration, the threaded screw can be inserted into an aperture (not shown) in the main plate 82 of the base 44. One end of the threaded screw fits into the aperture in the main plate 82 while the other end passes through an aperture in the connector tab 48 of the cartridge 42. The quick release knob 52 is screwed onto this end such that cartridge 42 is secured to the base 44. The quick release knob 42 and locator tabs 50 allow for quick installation and removal of the cartridge 42 to the base 44. Thus, the cartridge 42 is releasably connectable to the base 44.

As previously stated, the barrier 70 is releasably connected to the shaft 56 of the cartridge 42 via the barrier mounts 58. The barrier 70 may be connected to the shaft 56 prior to connection of the cartridge 42 to the base 44 or after connection of the cartridge 42 to the base 44. A longitudinal end of the barrier 70 is connected to the barrier mounts 58. During installation of a barrier 70 to a barrier mount 58, the first portion is pushed away from the shaft 56 by the barrier 70 until the barrier 70 reaches the second portion of the barrier mount 58. At this point, the first portion returns to its original position in contact with the shaft 56. In this configuration, the barrier 70 is secured to each barrier mount 58 and installed in the cartridge 42. To release connection of the barrier 70 from the barrier mount 58, the barrier 70 is pulled in the opposite direction (compared to installation) until the first portion of the barrier mount 58 moves away from the shaft 56 allowing for the barrier 70 to move away from the second portion and past the first portion such that the barrier 70 is no longer connected to the barrier mount 56. In this manner, a barrier can be replaced with a new or different barrier depending on the project. One of skill in the art will appreciate that various other installation/uninstallation methods and configurations are possible.

Once the barrier 70 is connected to all of the barrier mounts 58, the entire length of barrier 70 is wound or wrapped around the shaft 56, for example, by rotating the shaft 56 via the crank 74 or alternatively, by manually winding/wrapping the barrier 70 around the shaft 56. Once the connection strip 72 connected to the barrier 70 reaches the slotted opening 54 of the cartridge 42, rotation of the crank 74 is ceased. In an embodiment of the present invention, the connection strip 72 is configured to act as a stop to prevent the barrier 70 from being entirely retracted through the slotted opening 54 and into the cartridge 42. The lower height of the central portion of the front plate 86 of the base 44 allows for installation of the barrier 70 to the cartridge 42 even when the cartridge 42 is connected to the base 44.

When the cartridge 42 is connected to the base 44 and the main plate 82 rests on a surface, the wheels 96 are configured to not contact the surface. In this configuration, the assembly 40 will not slip or fall when in a resting state on the main plate 82. An operator must rotate the assembly 20 about the wheels 96 in order to contact the wheels 96 to the surface to move the assembly 40 via the wheels 96. An operator may grab the first handle 64 and place his/her foot on the axle 94 and rotate the assembly 40 to contact the wheels 96 to the surface. Since the wheels 96 are not in contact with the surface, rotation of the assembly 40 does not cause the assembly 40 to slip forward until the wheels 96 contact the surface. In this embodiment, the first handle 64 is ergonomically shaped to make this rotational movement comfortable and easy for a user. The base wheels 96 allow for the assembly 40 to be mobile such that a user can move the assembly 40 via the wheels 96 to a desired location and dispense barrier 70 at that location.

When the cartridge 42 is not connected to the base 44, an operator may grab one of, or both of, the first and second handles 64 and 66 and carry the assembly in a generally horizontal orientation. In this manner, the cartridge 42 is portable such that a user can easily move the cartridge 42 to a desired location and dispense barrier 70 at that location.

To extend a length of barrier 70 from the cartridge 42, the crank 74 is turned which in turn rotates the shaft 56 and permits extraction of barrier 70 from the cartridge 42 through the slotted opening 54 until a desired length of the barrier 70 is extracted from the cartridge 42. When use of the barrier 70 has been completed, the crank 74 is turned in the opposite direction to retract length of the barrier 70 back into the cartridge 42 until the connection strip 72 reaches the slotted opening 54 of the cartridge 42. In this manner, barrier 70 may be easily reused without waste and simply transported to a different site for reuse.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the assembly 40 may further comprise posts 100 and post bases 102. Each post 100 comprises a post body 104, reflective material 106, a post light 108 and barrier clips 110. As shown in FIG. 6, the post body 104 has a generally cylindrical shape and is hollow to ensure that post 100 is light weight. Each post 100 may be mounted for storage and ease of carry on the cartridge 42 via the post clasps 68 as will be described. The reflective material 106 is affixed to the post body 104 to reflect light and improve visibility in low light conditions. The post light 108 is affixed to the top of post body 104. In this embodiment, the post light 108 is an LED. Two barrier clips 110 are connected to the post body 104. Each barrier clip 110 comprises a first portion that is flexible and in contact with the post body 104, a second portion connected to the first portion that is not in contact with the post body 104 and a third portion that is connected to the second portion and the post body 104. The barrier clips 110 are configured to connect to the barrier 70 to secure the barrier 70 to the post 100 as will be described. In this embodiment, each post 100 comprises two barrier clips 110, but one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible.

Each post base 102 comprises a body 112, a post aperture 114 centrally located within the body 112 and two channels 116 on the underside of the body 112. The body 112 has a generally square shape. The post aperture 114 is sized to receive a post 100 and maintain the post 100 in a generally vertical position when the post base 102 is on a surface. The channels 116 on the underside of the body 112 allow for ropes and/or cords, such as electrical cords, to pass under the body 112 of a post base 102. In this embodiment, the post base 102 is made of rubber, although one of skill in the art will appreciate that other materials are possible.

The posts 100 and post bases 102 can be stored and/or secured to the assembly 40 such that the posts 100 and post bases 102 may be transported with the other components of the assembly 40. The posts 100 are secured to the cartridge 42 through friction fit with the post clasps 68. The reduced height of the central portion of the rear plate 88 of the base 44 permits easy connection to, and disconnection from, the post clasps 68. In this embodiment, the cartridge 42 comprises eight post clasps 68 such that two post clasps 86 secure a single post 100 and four posts 100 can be secured to the cartridge 42. The post bases 102 are stored on the main plate 82 of the base 44 such that two post bases 102 are side by side with one post base 102 close to, or in contact with, one side plate 64 of the base 44 and the other post base 102, is close to, or in contact with, the cartridge 42. In this manner, four post bases 102 may be stored on the main plate 82. The securing of the posts 100 and storage of the post bases 102 permits an operator to transport the cartridge 42 and base 44 with the posts 100 and post bases 102 all at once for easy installation of the posts 100 and post bases 102. While four posts 100 and four post bases 102 have been shown as being secured and stored on the assembly 40, one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible.

During installation, each post 100 is detached from the post clasps 68 and each post base 102 is removed from the main plate 82. The post base 102 is then placed on a surface such that the post 100 may be inserted into the post aperture 114 and secured in a generally vertical position via friction fit. The post base 102 ensures that the post 100 remains generally vertical and is not easily tipped over. As previously stated, cords and/or wires may run under the body 112 of the base 102 through the channels 116 without disturbing the vertical orientation of the post base 102 and post 100. Each post 100 is connected to the barrier 70 via the barrier clips 110. Each barrier clip 110 is connected to the barrier 70 such that the barrier 70 pushes the first portion of the barrier clip 110 away from the post body 104 and slides along the post body 104 to end up between the post body 104 and the second portion of the barrier clip 110 at which point the first portion of the barrier clip 110 returns to its original position in contact with the post body 104. In this manner, the barrier 70 is secured to a post 100 which is, in turn, secured to the post base 102, ensuring that the barrier 70 remains generally vertical during use. The post 100 and post base 102 may be placed in any location allowing an operator to form a perimeter of any shape around an area with the barrier 70 and ensure the barrier 70 will stay vertical through connection to the post 100.

As shown in FIG. 8, the cartridge 42 may further comprise a U-clamp 120 that is connected to the first handle 64 via screws (not shown). The U-clamp 120 is configured to connect to items such as a work light, wheels, tools, etc. In this embodiment, the U-clamp 120 is made of a magnetically conductive metal. While the U-clamp 120 has been shown as connected to the first handle 64, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the U-clamp 120 could be connected to each of the first and second handles 64 and 66.

As shown in FIG. 9, the connection strip 72 may further comprise magnets 122. In this embodiment, the connection strip 72 comprises two magnets 122 secured to the connection strip 72 using glue, although one of skill in the art will appreciate that other means of securing the magnets 122 to the connection strip 72 are possible. The position of the magnets 122 is aligned with the position of the U-clamps 120 placed on the first and second handles 64 and 66 such that when a length of barrier 70 is extended from the cartridge 42, the magnets 122 affix to the U-clamps 120 on the first and second handles 64 and 66 via magnetic attraction. This permits the barrier 70 to form an enclosed perimeter that starts from cartridge 42 at one end of the barrier that extends out of the slotted opening 54 and ends with the connection strip 72 connected to the U-clamps 120 of the cartridge 42 via the magnets 122.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the cartridge 42 may be connected to other elements besides the base 44. In this embodiment, the cartridge 42 is connected to a spiked base 130. The spiked base 130 comprises a triangular plate 132, a peg 134, locator braces 136, a handle 138 and a ground spike 140. The peg 134 and the locator braces 136 extend from the upper side of the triangular plate 132 in one direction while the ground spike 140 extends from the bottom side of the triangular plate 132 in the opposite direction. The handle 138 is shaped to permit gripping by an operator to carry the spiked base 130 when it is not connected to a cartridge 42.

In use, a cartridge 42 is connected to the spiked base 130 by inserting the locator tabs 50 of the cartridge 42 into the locator braces 136 of the spiked base 130, and inserting the peg 134 of the spiked base 130 into the aperture in the connection tab 48 of the cartridge 42. The connection tab 48 is secured to the triangular plate 132 of the spiked base 130 by inserting a pin 142 into an aperture in the peg 134 such that the peg 134 cannot be completely removed from the connection tab 48. The pin 142 is connected to a wire/cord that is connected to the spiked base 130. In this embodiment, the wire/cord is a lanyard and the lanyard is riveted to the spiked base 130. Before or after the cartridge 42 is connected to the spiked base 130, the spike 140 of the spiked base 130 is inserted into the ground at a desired location. In this manner the cartridge 130 can be secured to any ground simply by inserting the spike 140 into the ground. To disconnect the cartridge 42 from the spiked base 130, the pin 142 is removed from the aperture in the peg 134 so that the peg 134 can be removed from the aperture of the connection tab 48 and the locator tabs 50 and removed from the locator braces 136.

As shown in FIGS. 12 to 14 b, the cartridge 42 may be connected to a three legged base 150. The three legged base 150 comprises a first plate 152, a second plate 154, a peg 156, locator braces 158, a handle 160, legs 162 and slotted apertures 164. The first plate 152 is connected to the second plate 154 such that, when the three legged base 150 is not connected to a cartridge, the first plate 152 can rotate to fold over onto the second plate 154 as shown in FIGS. 14a and 14b . The hinged connection between the first and second plates 152 and 154 allows the plates 152 and 154 to fold together in one direction, but to not break their joint horizontal plain in the opposite direction. The peg 156 extends from the upper side of the first plate 152, and the two locator braces 158 extend from the upper side of the second plate 154. One leg 162 extends from an edge of the first plate 152 and the other two legs 162 extends from edges of the second plate 154 such that the legs 162 are approximately equally spaced about the perimeter of the first and second plates 152 and 154. The handle 160 is shaped to permit gripping by an operator to carry the three legged base 150 when it is not connected to a cartridge 42. One slotted aperture 164 is located in the first plate 152 while another slotted aperture 164 is located in the second plate 154.

In use, a cartridge 42 is connected to the three legged base 150 by inserting the locator tabs 50 of the cartridge 42 into the locator braces 158 of the three legged base 150, and inserting the peg 156 of the three legged base 150 into the aperture in the connection tab 48 of the cartridge 42. The connection tab 48 is secured to the first plate 152 of the three legged base 150 by inserting a pin 166 into an aperture in the peg 156 such that the peg 156 cannot be completely removed from the connection tab 48. The pin 166 is connected to a wire/cord that is connected to the three legged base 150. In this embodiment, the wire/cord is a lanyard and the lanyard is riveted to the three legged base 150. The pin 166 allows for some movement of the peg 156 within the aperture of the connection tab 48. Before or after the cartridge 42 is connected to the three legged base 150, the three legs 162 of the three legged base 150 are rested on a surface. Once the cartridge is connected to the three legged base 150, if the surface is not flat, the first plate 152 may rotate relative to the second plate 154. Since the pin 166 allows for movement of the peg 156 within the aperture of the connection tab 48, some rotation of the first plate 152 relative to the second plate 154 is permitted. In this manner, the cartridge 42 can be connected to the three legged base 150 even if the surface upon which the legs 162 rest is not entirely flat. To disconnect the cartridge 42 from the three legged base 150, the pin 166 is removed from the aperture in the peg 156 so that the peg 156 can be removed from the aperture of the connection tab 48 and the locator tabs 50 and removed from the locator braces 158.

When the first plate 152 is rotated to contact the second plate 154, slotted apertures 164 align, as shown in FIG. 14b , an operator can carry the three legged base 150 by inserting his/her hand in the slotted apertures 164. In this configuration, the three legged base 150 takes up less space and can more easily and conveniently be stored or transported.

Turning now to FIGS. 15 to 20, a barrier assembly in accordance with another aspect of the present invention is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 200. The barrier assembly 200 comprises a housing 202 connected to a base 204. The housing 202 comprises a plate 206, supports 208, a shaft 210, a barrier guide 212, a barrier support 214, clamps 216, a handle plate 218, a handle 220 and barrier mounts 230. As shown in FIG. 15, the supports 208 are generally rectangular and are mounted on the base 204 at one end and connected to the plate 206 at the other end. The plate 206 is generally rectangular. While four supports 208 have been shown, one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible. The shaft 210 extends from the plate 206, at a generally central point of the plate 206, to the base 204. The barrier guide 212 extends from the plate 206 to the base 2014 and interacts with barrier as will be described. The barrier support 214 is connected to the shaft 210 such that the barrier support 214 supports barrier as will be described and rotates with the shaft 210 as the shaft 210 rotates. As shown in FIG. 16, the barrier mounts 230 are connected to shaft 210 at intermediate points thereof and interact with a barrier as will be described. In this embodiment, there are three (3) barrier mounts 230, but one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible. Each barrier mount 230 is configured such that a first portion of the barrier mount 230 is in contact with the shaft 210, a second portion of the barrier mount 230 is spaced away from the shaft 210 and is connected to the first portion, and a third portion of the barrier mount 230 is connected to the shaft 210 and the second portion. The first portion of the barrier mount 230 is flexible.

Clamps 216 are mounted to the supports 208 as shown in FIG. 15. Each clamp 216 is mounted to two supports 208 and interacts with post bases as will be described. As shown in FIG. 18, handle plate 218 is connected to two supports 208 and the plate 206. Mounted on the handle plate 218 is the handle 220 which is used to move the assembly 200 as will be described.

As shown in FIG. 20, the plate 206 comprises post apertures 222, locking apertures 224, a crank 226 and a locking knob 228. In this embodiment, there are four (4) post apertures 222 and eight (8) locking apertures 224; although one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible. The post apertures 222 interact with posts as will be described. The crank 226 is mounted on the plate 206 and connected through a central aperture in the plate 206 to the shaft 210 such that turning the crank 226 clockwise or counter-clockwise similarly rotates the shaft 210 clockwise or counter-clockwise. The locking knob 228 is connected to the crank 226 and interacts with the locking apertures 224 as will be described. The locking knob 228 can be in a locked or an unlocked position.

As shown in FIG. 15, a barrier 240 is rolled around the shaft 210 and extends out from the housing 202 through the barrier guide 212. The barrier 240 comprises a connection strip 242 connected to a longitudinal edge of the barrier 240 and magnets 244 connected to the connection strip 242. The barrier 240 rests on the barrier support 214. Turning the crank 226 in one direction winds the barrier 240 around the shaft 210 while turning the crank 226 in the opposite direction unwinds the barrier 240 from the shaft 210 such that the barrier 240 exits the housing 202 via the barrier guide 212.

The base 204 comprises a main plate 250, side plates 252, a front plate 254, a rear plate 256, post mounts 258, drain apertures 260, an axel 262 and wheels 264. The side, front and rear plates 252, 254 and 256, respectively, extend from the main plate 250. As shown in FIG. 15, the side plates 252 have a generally rectangular shape. The front and rear plates 254 and 256, respectively, have a generally rectangular shape, however, a central portion of each of the front and rear plates 254 and 256 has a lower height than the portions adjacent the central portion. The lower height of the central portions of the front plate 254 accommodate insertion and removal of barrier 240 as will be described, while the lower height of the rear plate 256 accommodates rotation and movement of the assembly as will be described. Furthermore, the lower heights of the central portions of the front and rear plates 254 and 256 described the overall weight of the base 204 thereby decreasing the overall weight of the assembly 200. The rear plate 256 has drain apertures 260 as shown in FIG. 18. While two drain apertures 260 are depicted, one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or less may be present. As shown in FIG. 15, four post mounts 258 extend from the main plate and interact with posts as will be described. The post mounts 258 are generally cylindrical and hollow. While four post mounts 258 have been shown, one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer may be present. The axle 262 passes through apertures in the side plates 252 and is connected to wheels 264 on either end thereof.

In use, the barrier 240 is releasably connected to the shaft 210 via the barrier mounts 230. The barrier 240 is inserted through the barrier guide 212 and a longitudinal end of the barrier 240 is connected to the barrier mounts 230. During installation of a barrier 240 to a barrier mount 230, the first portion is pushed away from the shaft 210 by the barrier 240 until the barrier 240 reaches the second portion of the barrier mount 230. At this point, the first portion returns to its original position in contact with the shaft 210. In this configuration, the barrier 240 is secured to each barrier mounts 230 and rests on or above the barrier support 214. To release connection of the barrier 240 from the barrier mount 230, the barrier 240 is pulsed in the opposite direction (compared to installation) until the first portion of the barrier mount 230 moves away from the shaft 210 allowing for the barrier 240 to move away from the second portion and past the ‘first portion such that barrier 240 is no longer connected to the barrier mount 230. In this manner, a barrier can be replaced with a different barrier depending on the project. One of skill in the art will appreciate that various other installation/uninstallation methods and configurations are possible.

The entire length of barrier 240 is then wound or wrapped around the shaft 210 by rotating the shaft 210 via the crank 226 or winding/wrapping the barrier 240 around the shaft 210. Once the connection strip 242 connected to the barrier 240 contacts the barrier guide 212, the barrier 240 may not be further wound/wrapped on the shaft 210 or rotation of the shaft 210 is ceased. The lower height of the central portion of the front plate 254 of the base 204 allows for unencumbered connection of the barrier 250 to the barrier mounts 230.

When the main plate 250 of the base 204 rests on a surface, the wheels 264 are configured to not contact the surface. In this configuration, the assembly 200 will not slip or fall when in a resting state on the main plate 250. An operator must rotate the assembly 200 about the wheels 264 in order to contact the wheels 264 to the surface to move the assembly 200 via the wheels 264. An operator may grab the handle 220 and place his/her foot on the axle 262 and/or lower central portion of the rear plate 256 and rotate the assembly 200 to contact the wheels 264 to the surface. Since the wheels 264 are not in contact with the surface, rotation of the assembly 200 does not cause the assembly 200 to slip forward until the wheels 264 contact the surface. The handle 220 is ergonomically shaped to make this rotational movement comfortable and easy for a user. The wheels 264 allow for the assembly 200 to be mobile such that a user can move the assembly 200 via the wheels 264 to a desired location and dispense barrier 240 at that location.

To extend length of barrier 240 from the assembly 200, the crank 226 is turned which rotates the shaft 210 which in turn permits extending the length of barrier 240 out through the barrier guide 212. When a desired length of the barrier 240 is extracted from the assembly 200, the barrier 240 may be cut at that length. If the barrier is not cut, when use of the barrier 240 has been completed, the crank 226 is turned in the opposite direction to retract length of the barrier 240 to wrap the barrier 240 around the shaft 210 until the connection strip 242 reaches the barrier guide 212. In this manner, barrier 250 may be easily reused without waste and simply transported to a different site for reuse.

Rotation of the crank 226 is only permitted when the locking knob 228 is not in a locked position in one of the locking apertures 224. When the locking knob 228 is in a locked position in one of the locking apertures 224, the knob 228 passes through the locking aperture 224 and does not permit movement of the crank. Pulling the knob 228 away from the plate 206 removes the knob 288 from locking aperture 224 and puts the knob 228 in the unlocked position where movement of the crank 226 is not restricted. The knob 228 may be spring loaded such that it will stay in the unlocked position until rotated. When the knob 228 is rotated, it moves to the locked position when a spring provides a force on the knob 228 pushing it onto the plate 206 or into one of the locking apertures224 if the knob 228 is in alignment with one of the locking apertures 224. When the knob 228 is within one of the locking apertures 224, pulling the knob 228 out of the locking aperture 224 and rotating back to the unlocked position remove the spring force and prevents the knob 228 from entering one of the locking apertures 224. In this manner, the knob 228 can be used to prevent barrier 240 from accidently or inadvertently unwinding from the shaft 210.

Similar to magnets 122 of the assembly 40, magnets 244 can be magnetically connected to objects including a support 208 of the housing 202. In this manner, the assembly 200 can be used to form a closed perimeter with barrier extending from the assembly 200 and connected back to the assembly 200 via magnetic connection between the magnets 244 and a support 208.

As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the assembly 200 may further comprises posts 300 and post bases 302. Each post 300 comprises a post body 304, reflective material 306, a light 308 and barrier clips 310. The post body 304 has a generally cylindrical shape and is hollow to ensure the post 300 is light weight. Each post 300 is configured be connected to interact with a post mount 258 as will be described. The reflective material 306 is affixed to the post body 304 to reflect light and improve visibility in low light conditions. The post light 308 is affixed to the top of post body 304. In this embodiment, the post light 308 is an LED. Two barrier clips 310 are connected to the post body 304. Each barrier clip 310 comprises a first portion that is flexible and in contact with the post body 304, a second portion connected to the first portion that is not in contact with the post body 304, and a third portion connected to the second portion and the post body 304. The barrier clips 310 are configured to connect to the barrier 240 to secure the barrier 240 to the post 300 as will be described. In this embodiment, each post 300 comprises two barrier clips 310, but one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible.

Each post base 302 comprises a body 312, a post aperture 314 centrally located within the body 312 and two channels 316 on the underside of the body 312. The body 312 has a generally square shape. The post aperture 314 is sized to receive a post 300 and maintain the post 300 in a generally vertical position when the post base 302 is a surface. The channels 316 on the underside of the body 312 allow for ropes and/or cords, such as electrical cords, to pass under the body 312 of a post base 302. In this embodiment, the post base 302 is made of rubber although one of skill in the art will appreciate that other materials are possible.

The posts 300 and post bases 302 can be stored and/or secured to the assembly 200 such that the posts 100 and posts 102 may be transported with the other components of the assembly 200. Each post 300 is inserted into a post aperture 222 in the plate 206 of the housing 202 and fits over a post mounts 258 of the base 204. The height of the housing 204, the radius of the post aperture 222 and the post mount 258 ensure each post 300 can be easily inserted into the post aperture 222, but will not move off of the post mount 258 when inserted. One post base 302 is stored on the main plate 250 between two supports 208, a side plate 252, the front plate 254 and the rear plate 256 on each side of the housing 202 as shown in FIG. 21. Another post base 302 is stored on top of the first post base 302 and is held in place by the clamp 216, on each side of the housing 202. The storing of posts 300 and post bases 302 permits an operator to transport the assembly 200 with the posts 300 and post bases 302 for easy installation of the posts 300 and post bases 302 and set up of the barrier area. While four (4) posts 300 and four (4) post bases 302 have been shown, one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible.

During installation, each post 300 is removed post mount 258 and post aperture 222, and each post base 302 is removed from either the clamps 216 or main plate 250. The post base 302 is then placed on a surface such that the post 300 may be inserted into the post aperture 314 and secured in a generally vertical position via friction fit. The post base 302 ensures that the post 300 remains generally vertical and is not easily tipped over. As previously stated, cords and/or wires may run under the body 312 of the base 302 through the channels 316 without disturbing the vertical orientation of the post base 302 and post 300. Each post 300 is connected to the barrier 240 via the barrier clips 310. Each barrier clip 310 is connected to the barrier 240 such that the barrier 240 pushes the first portion of the barrier clip 310 away from the post body 304 and slides along the post body 304 to end up between the post body 304 and the second portion of the barrier clip 310 at which point the first portion of the barrier clip 310 returns to its original position in contact with the post body 304. In this manner, the barrier 240 is secured to a post 300 which is secured to the post base 302 ensuring the barrier 240 remains generally vertical during use. The post 300 and post base 302 may be placed in any location allowing an operator to form a perimeter of any shape with the barrier 240 and ensure the barrier 240 will stay vertical through connection to the post 300.

Turning now to FIG. 23, another barrier assembly in accordance with an aspect of the invention is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 400. The barrier assembly 400 comprises a cartridge 402 and a post 430. The cartridge 402 comprises a housing 404, a rotatable shaft 406 mounted within the housing 404, an opening 408, barrier mounts 410 connected to the shaft 406 and brackets 412 having apertures 414. The shaft 406 is rotatably mounted within the housing 404 along a longitudinal axis of the housing 404 such that the shaft 406 is accessible through the opening 408. The brackets 412 extend from either side of the housing 404 and are configured to allow for the cartridge 402 to be mounted to a surface as will be described. In this embodiment, there are three barrier mounts 410, but those of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible. The barrier mounts 410 are configured to connect to a barrier 420 in the same manner as the described barrier mounts 58 and 230 of assemblies 40 and 200, respectively. The barrier 420 comprises a connection strip 422 that interacts with the post 430 as will be described..

The post 430 comprises a body 432 extending from a base 434 that comprises apertures 436. The post 430 further comprises barrier clips 438 connected to the body 432 and tabs 440 having mounting apertures 442. The base 436 is configured to allow for the post 430 to be mounted to a surface as will be described. The barrier clips 438 are configured to connect to the barrier 420 in the same manner as the described barrier clips 110 and 310 of the posts 100 and 300, respectively. In the this embodiment there are two barrier clips 438, but those of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer are possible. The tabs 440 extend perpendicularly from the body 432. The mount apertures 442 of the tabs 440 are configured to interact with the connection strip 422 of the barrier 420 as will be described.

In use, a barrier 420 is connected to the shaft 406 via the barrier mounts 410 in the manner described with respect to barrier mounts 58 and 230 of assemblies 40 and 200, respectively. The barrier 420 is then wrapped around the shaft 406. The shaft 406 may be rotated by hand or by mechanical means such as a crank or a motor. When a length of barrier 420 is required, the barrier 420 is pulled away from the cartridge 402 such that the barrier 420 is unwrapped from the shaft 406. A perimeter or configuration of barrier 420 may then be constructed using the unwrapped barrier 420. Posts 100 or 300 may be used in constructing this perimeter or configuration. The barrier 420 may be connected to the post 430. The barrier clips 438 are connected to the barrier 420 in the same manner as the described barrier clips 110 and 310 of the posts 100 and 300, respectively. The connection strip 422 may be connected to the post 430 by inserting one end of the connection strip 422 into a mount aperture 442 of the post 430 and moving the connection strip 422 up or down (depending on the end of the connection strip 422) such that the other end of the connection strip 422 may be inserted into the other mount aperture 422 of the post 430.

The cartridge 402 can be secured to a surface by placing bolts, for example, into the apertures 414 of the brackets 412 which are secured to the surface. Similarly, the post 430 can be secured to a surface by placing bolts, for example, into the apertures 436 of the base 434 which are secured to the surface. In the configuration the barrier 420 can be extended from the cartridge 402 and connected to the post 430 to define wall of barrier 420 that is secured on either end by the cartridge 402 and post 430, respectively.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate, that the post 430 can be used in conjunction with the assemblies 40 and 200.

Turning now to FIG. 24, a clip assembly in accordance with another aspect of the invention is shown and is generally identified by reference numeral 500. The clip assembly 500 comprises a magnet 502 connected to a clip 504. The magnet 502 can be magnetically mounted to a ferromagnetic material. In this embodiment, the magnet 502 is circular. One of skill in the art will appreciate that other shapes are possible. The clip 504 comprises a first portion 506 connected to the magnet via two rivets, a second portion 508 extending from to the first portion 506 and a third portion 510 extending from the second portion 508. The second portion 508 has a longitudinal axis that is substantially co-axial with the longitudinal axis of the first portion 506. The third portion 510 extends from the second portion 508 at an angle. In this embodiment, the angle is approximately 30 degree to the longitudinal axis of the second portion 508. The clip 504 facilitates mounting of a barrier as will be described.

In use, a barrier 600 is mounted to the clip assembly 500 as shown in FIG. 25. The clip 504 fits through one of the holes in the barrier 600. The angle of the third portion 510 relative to the second portion 508 facilitates fast and easy insertion of the clip assembly 500 through the selected hole. The angle of the second portion 506 ensures that the barrier 600 will not accidently become unmounted from the clip assembly 500. While not shown in FIG. 25, the magnet 502 is magnetically connected to a ferromagnetic material prior to mounting the barrier 600 to the clip 504 or post mounting the barrier 600 to the clip 504. The clip assembly 500 allows for objects made from ferromagnetic materials to be used to mount the barrier 600. For example, the clip assembly 500 can be connected to an iron door frame by magnetically connecting to the magnet 502 to the iron door frame. Once the clip assembly 500 is mounted to the iron door frame, the barrier 600 may be mounted on the clip 504. One of skill will appreciate that the clip assembly 500 may be used with the barrier 70 and 240 of assembly 40 and 200, respectively.

The various components of the different embodiments described herein may be manufactured in a variety of materials including, but not limited to, metal, such as steel, plastic, rubber and the like.

Although certain embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, those of skill in the art will appreciate that variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope thereof as defined by the appended claims. 

We claim: 1-29 (canceled)
 30. A barrier assembly comprising: a cartridge comprising a longitudinally mounted rotatable central shaft and a longitudinal opening through which the interior of the cartridge is accessible, the shaft configured for connection to a barrier; and a base connectable to the cartridge, the base comprising at least one wheel configured to permit movement of the base on a surface.
 31. The barrier assembly of claim 30, wherein the shaft is configured for releasable connection to a barrier and/or the base is configured for releasable connection to the cartridge.
 32. The barrier assembly of claim 30, wherein the cartridge further comprises at least one connector, each connector of the at least one connector connected to an exterior of the cartridge and connectable to a post.
 33. The barrier assembly of claim 30, further comprising a mechanism connected to the shaft for rotating the shaft within the interior of the cartridge.
 34. The barrier assembly of claim 30, wherein the cartridge further comprises at least one handle.
 35. The barrier assembly of claim 32, further comprising at least one post, each post of the at least one post mountable on the cartridge via a connector of the at least one connector.
 36. The barrier assembly of claim 35, further comprising at least one post base, each post base of the at least one post base configured to connect to a post of the at least one post, to maintain the post in an approximately vertical configuration.
 37. The barrier assembly of claim 30, further comprising a barrier connected to the shaft.
 38. The barrier assembly of claim 37, wherein the barrier comprises a connection strip.
 39. The barrier assembly of claim 38, wherein the barrier further comprises at least one magnet connected to the connection strip.
 40. A barrier assembly comprising: a housing comprising a longitudinally mounted rotatable central shaft, the shaft configured for connection to a barrier; and a base connected to the housing, the base comprising at least one wheel configured to permit movement of the assembly on a surface.
 41. The barrier assembly of claim 40, wherein the housing further comprises: at least one support connected to the base; and a plate connected to the at least one support and the shaft.
 42. The barrier assembly of claim 41, wherein the plate further comprises at least one post aperture and the base further comprises at least one post mount, each post mount of the at least one post mount, aligned with a post aperture of the at least one post aperture.
 43. The barrier assembly of claim 40, further comprising a mechanism connected to the shaft for rotating the shaft within the interior of the housing.
 44. The barrier assembly of claim 42, further comprising at least one post, each post mountable on the assembly via insertion into a post aperture of the at least one post aperture and fitting over a post mount of the at least one post mount.
 45. The barrier assembly of claim 44, further comprising at least one post base, each post base connectable to a post of the at least one post to maintain the post in an approximately vertical configuration.
 46. The barrier assembly of claim 40, further comprising a barrier connected to the shaft.
 47. The barrier assembly of claim 46, wherein the barrier further comprises a connection strip or a connection strip and a magnet connected to the connection strip.
 48. The barrier assembly of claim 46, wherein the barrier assembly further comprises a clip assembly comprising a magnet configured to magnetically connect to a ferromagnetic surface and a clip connected to the magnet, wherein the barrier is mountable to the clip. 